About Us ✨

Know Us Better

Celestial Reach Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded by high school student Sophie Duan. The organization’s goal is to expand access to astronomy education for K–12 students, especially those in underserved communities. It began as a response to significant gaps in STEM exposure among youth. Sophie combined her passion for space science with a commitment to youth development and emotional well-being.

We aim to build curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning through astronomy.

Our mission is to deliver hands-on astronomy education, community-based programs, and digital resources that integrate mindfulness with science. We serve students through workshops, stargazing events, and outreach partnerships. Our programs provide tools for both intellectual growth and emotional regulation.

Our message is simple: The universe belongs to everyone.
We help students discover it—and discover themselves.

Our Origin Story

Born from Curiosity. Built for Connection.
Celestial Reach began with a single vision: to educate and inspire young minds through the wonders of astronomy. What started as a personal project has grown into a broader mission to bring the universe closer to students everywhere through programs that spark wonder and nurture the whole child—both mentally and intellectually.

Meet the Founder & President

Sophie Duan – President
Sophie is a student at Allen D. Nease High School, where she combines academic curiosity with emotional insight. Her leadership continues to shape Celestial Reach’s mission to connect space education with mental well-being. She believes the universe has the power to inspire not just wonder, but also peace and confidence in the lives of young learners.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Berden Miles – Vice President
 A student leader at Allen D. Nease High School, Berden brings strong organizational skills and a passion for community service. His focus on outreach helps expand Celestial Reach’s impact across local schools.

Dash Hilbert – Treasurer A
student at Ponte Vedra High School,
Dash brings creativity and attention to detail to the team. His interest in structure and logistics supports the organization’s financial and operational planning.

Kathleen Key – Secretary
Also attending Allen D. Nease High School, Kathleen contributes academic strength and a spirit of mentorship. She plays a key role in communication, scheduling, and helping coordinate school-based programming.

Get Involved

We’re always looking for fellow explorers—educators, volunteers, donors, and dreamers—who share our passion for space and student empowerment.
• Teachers & Schools: Bring Celestial Reach to your classroom or event
• Volunteers: Help us host stargazing nights and hands-on workshops
• Supporters: Your donations fuel telescopes, lesson kits, and outreach 
Contact us at info@celestialreach.org to learn more or get involved.

Acknowledgments

We are deeply grateful to our community partners, educators, and supporters who believe in our mission. Together, we are helping young minds reach for the stars—one constellation at a time.

ABOUT

Know Us Better

Celestial Reach Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded by high school student Sophie Duan. The organization’s goal is to expand access to astronomy education for K–12 students, especially those in underserved communities. It began as a response to significant gaps in STEM exposure among youth. Sophie combined her passion for space science with a commitment to youth development and emotional well-being.

We aim to build curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning through astronomy.

Our mission is to deliver hands-on astronomy education, community-based programs, and digital resources that integrate mindfulness with science. We serve students through workshops, stargazing events, and outreach partnerships. Our programs provide tools for both intellectual growth and emotional regulation.

Our message is simple: The universe belongs to everyone.
We help students discover it—and discover themselves.

Our Origin Story

Born from Curiosity. Built for Connection.
Celestial Reach began with a single vision: to educate and inspire young minds through the wonders of astronomy. What started as a personal project has grown into a broader mission to bring the universe closer to students everywhere through programs that spark wonder and nurture the whole child—both mentally and intellectually.

Meet the Founder & President

Sophie Duan – President
Sophie is a student at Allen D. Nease High School, where she combines academic curiosity with emotional insight. Her leadership continues to shape Celestial Reach’s mission to connect space education with mental well-being. She believes the universe has the power to inspire not just wonder, but also peace and confidence in the lives of young learners.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Berden Miles – Vice President
 A student leader at Allen D. Nease High School, Berden brings strong organizational skills and a passion for community service. His focus on outreach helps expand Celestial Reach’s impact across local schools.

Dash Hilbert – Treasurer A
student at Ponte Vedra High School,
Dash brings creativity and attention to detail to the team. His interest in structure and logistics supports the organization’s financial and operational planning.

Kathleen Key – Secretary
Also attending Allen D. Nease High School, Kathleen contributes academic strength and a spirit of mentorship. She plays a key role in communication, scheduling, and helping coordinate school-based programming.

Get Involved

We’re always looking for fellow explorers—educators, volunteers, donors, and dreamers—who share our passion for space and student empowerment.
• Teachers & Schools: Bring Celestial Reach to your classroom or event
• Volunteers: Help us host stargazing nights and hands-on workshops
• Supporters: Your donations fuel telescopes, lesson kits, and outreach 
Contact us at info@celestialreach.org to learn more or get involved.

Acknowledgments

We are deeply grateful to our community partners, educators, and supporters who believe in our mission. Together, we are helping young minds reach for the stars—one constellation at a time.

“My son came home from the stargazing event and asked for a telescope. He’s never shown this much excitement for science.”
Elena Ramirez, Parent, Jacksonville, FL
Elena Ramirez, Parent, Jacksonville, FL
“The blend of astronomy and mindfulness helped our students stay calm and focused. Every school should have access to this.”
Mr. Jamal Preston, Middle School Counselor
Mr. Jamal Preston, Middle School Counselor
“Celestial Reach gave our daughters a safe, inspiring space to ask questions. It changed how they see the world—and themselves.”
Priya Mehta, Mother of two, Orlando, FL
Priya Mehta, Mother of two, Orlando, FL
“The team brought passion and professionalism. Our library event reached over 80 kids who had never seen a telescope before.”
Sandra Cho, Youth Program Coordinator, St. Johns County Public Library
Sandra Cho, Youth Program Coordinator, St. Johns County Public Library
“I support this nonprofit because they deliver real change. They reach kids who usually get left out of STEM programs.”
Derek Holtz, Philanthropist and STEM Advocate
Derek Holtz, Philanthropist and STEM Advocate
“As a teacher, I see a lot of programs come through. Celestial Reach stands out. Their approach is transformative.”
Ms. Cynthia Wang, 5th Grade Teacher, Duval County Schools
Ms. Cynthia Wang, 5th Grade Teacher, Duval County Schools

Building Futures Through Stellar Discovery

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Mission in Action

We engage students through real-time stargazing, workshops, and tailored programming aligned with their age, location, and access needs.

Support Cosmic Mindfulness

Educational Innovation

Our team develops digital and live experiences to teach astronomy while supporting self-regulation, imagination, and STEM readiness.

Become a Celestial Ambassador

Community Impact

We partner with schools, youth groups, and families to foster equity in space science access and mental well-being.

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Voices from the Stars

22 Nov

When the Sky Becomes a Classroom

See how one telescope transformed a rural school night into a life-changing lesson in wonder, access, and scientific discovery.

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